A man from St. Thomas accused of sexually assaulting a woman in London during daylight hours has been released on bail following a disputed hearing, despite a prosecutor’s recommendation for him to remain in custody.
London authorities claim Gregory Zehr, aged 45, coerced a woman into his vehicle on June 4 on Adelaide Street by deceit. Allegedly, he then brandished a knife, restrained her, and transported her to Oxford Street East and Mornington Avenue, where the purported sexual assault occurred.
Zehr is charged with six offenses, including sexual assault with a weapon, forcible confinement, kidnapping, assault with a weapon, weapon possession, and making threats of harm or death. These accusations have not yet been proven in court.
During a bail hearing via video link from Elgin-Middlesex Detention Centre, Assistant Crown attorney Lisa Defoe opposed Zehr’s release due to the gravity of the charges, while defense counsel Lisa Gunn proposed a release plan involving Zehr’s parents as sureties. Justice Clive Forbes granted bail, with a publication ban safeguarding the alleged victim’s identity.
Zehr will stay in custody until he can be equipped with a government-provided GPS monitor. His next court appearance in London is scheduled for September 24.
As part of his bail conditions, Zehr must reside with his parents in New Hamburg, Ont., observe house arrest with minimal exceptions, have no contact with the alleged victim, avoid places connected to the victim, refrain from using internet-connected devices without supervision, and comply with the GPS monitoring program.
London police disclosed the charges at a press briefing last month, expressing suspicions of potential additional victims. Authorities urge anyone with relevant encounters with Zehr to come forward.
Support services are accessible for individuals affected by sexual or domestic violence through local organizations such as the London Abused Women’s Centre and Anova. Crisis hotlines and support resources can be accessed through government websites or the Ending Violence Association of Canada database. In situations of immediate danger, call 911.